The One You Feed

Dr. Shauna Shapiro, a professor and mindfulness expert, dives into the transformative power of self-compassion. She discusses the crucial elements of mindfulness: intention, attention, and attitude, advocating for small daily practices to cultivate these traits. Shapiro explores how shame can hinder growth and emphasizes the importance of self-kindness. Listeners will learn about the 'Good Morning, I Love You' practice, the concept of self-liberation versus self-improvement, and how setting flexible intentions can enhance personal well-being.

Spring Washam, a meditation and dharma teacher from Oakland, dives into the life and lessons of Harriet Tubman. She emphasizes the importance of honoring our ancestors and acknowledges that struggle is a universal teacher. The discussion frames Tubman's journey as a metaphor for breaking mental prisons and finding inner freedom, symbolized by the North Star as a guiding light. Washam also highlights the significance of storytelling in fostering resilience and compassion, especially in today's media landscape filled with negativity.

Kathy Fagan, an esteemed poet and co-founder of Ohio State's MFA program, delves into the emotional complexities of caregiving. She shares her personal journey with the dualities of love and loss while caring for an aging parent with dementia. Fagan discusses how writing serves as a therapeutic tool to process grief and embrace difficult emotions. The conversation also explores the nuances of trust in relationships and highlights the importance of attentiveness and curiosity in creativity and life.

Koshin Paley Ellison, a Zen teacher and psychotherapist, shares profound insights on embracing suffering and the transformative power of compassion. He discusses the significance of confronting the 'three giants'—greed, anger, and delusion—highlighting personal growth. The conversation explores how acknowledging trauma can liberate us from victimhood and emphasizes the role of mindfulness in nurturing clarity and courage. Koshin offers advice on aligning actions with values, emphasizing the importance of accountability and deep connections in our personal journeys.

In this enlightening conversation, Kristin Neff, an Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin and pioneer in self-compassion research, shares fascinating insights. She reveals how self-compassion is scientifically proven to be more beneficial than self-criticism. Kristin debunks myths surrounding self-compassion, emphasizing its role in overcoming shame and fostering resilience. She highlights the power of touch and mindfulness in cultivating self-kindness, encouraging listeners to treat themselves with the same compassion they offer friends.

George Saunders, a celebrated American writer and professor, dives deep into the creative process. He highlights how slowing down enhances concentration and freshens creativity. Embracing uncertainty transforms both personal growth and storytelling, allowing for richer narratives. Saunders discusses the importance of specificity in elevating stories and the struggles of self-doubt that even seasoned writers face. With philosophical insights, he encourages listeners to navigate their fears while discovering beauty in imperfection.

Dr. Jan Lundy, Gerald May Professor of Spiritual Direction and a prolific author, shares her insights on nourishing spiritual life. She discusses the 'overculture' and its impact on personal journeys, highlighting the struggle between good and bad internal voices. Lundy emphasizes the importance of discernment amid distractions, suggesting practices like breathwork for deeper self-connection. She also explores the joy of spiritual exploration while advocating for patience and intention in our paths toward fulfillment.

The conversation dives into a personal story of overcoming addiction and the crucial role of vulnerability and helping others in the recovery process. It emphasizes the defining of spirituality as a connection to what truly matters in life. Listeners learn the importance of mindfulness, present moment awareness, and finding the 'middle way.' There's also a profound insight into how we create meaning in our lives rather than merely discovering it, along with actionable steps for personal growth and a fulfilling existence.

Dr. Joanne Cacciatore, a trauma and bereavement specialist and founder of the MISS Foundation, shares her insights on navigating grief. She emphasizes the importance of surrendering to painful emotions instead of avoiding them. Listeners learn how grief is complex and non-linear, necessitating emotional intelligence and support. Cacciatore discusses the vital role of animals in providing comfort during loss and advocates for being present for those grieving. Cultivating community and understanding the multifaceted nature of grief are key to healing.

In this discussion, Nedra Glover Tawwab, a mental health specialist and New York Times bestselling author, shares her insights on managing family dynamics. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing unhealthy patterns and the role of shame in limiting honesty. Tawwab advocates for redefining love and self-acceptance while navigating difficult family relationships. She also explores the impact of past experiences on intimacy and the significance of personal growth in fostering healthier connections. Her practical advice empowers listeners to build stronger family ties.